STUDENTS will gain an insight into one of the fastest-growing industries in the world from September, as HSDC Alton College is launching its new Esports course.

Esports, short for electronic sports, is a form of competition using video games and often takes the form of organised, multi-player video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually or as teams .

The new two-year BTEC course created by the British Esports Association and Pearson is the first Esports qualification of its kind in the world.

The BTEC Level 3 extended diploma in Esports will be hosted in HSDC’s gaming and Esports facilities on the Alton and South Downs campuses.

Paul Carter, assistant principal vocational and technical curriculum, said: “HSDC Alton College is really excited to be offering this new BTEC Esports course that has been developed in partnership with the British Esports Association.

“The course offers students an opportunity to study all areas of one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world.

“The course has been designed to give students the chance to learn skills in all areas and careers within the Esports industry as well as core skills in business, media, sports science, health and fitness.”

Students will gain knowledge in a variety of areas, including enterprise and entrepreneurship, strategy and analysis, live-streamed broadcasting, video production, shoutcasting, coaching, health and wellbeing, ethical issues and more.

There will also be the opportunity to compete in the British Esports Association colleges competitions. Heading up the teaching team will be Esports coach Rhys Williams.

Paul added: “One of the most important factors when deciding to offer the new course was making sure we had industry expertise leading the way.

“With the appointment of Rhys Williams as our Esports lead lecturer, we have secured someone who is a current player, coach and industry professional.”